When I first set out to explore Yonkers, I was searching for something quieter than Manhattan’s constant buzz but still rich in history, culture, and charm. What I found was a city that opens itself beautifully through its parks and walking trails. Yonkers may not always be the first name that comes to mind for travelers to New York State, but walking through its green spaces, historic gardens, and riverside paths, I discovered an entirely different side of the region—calmer, deeply rooted in community, and astonishingly scenic.
Booking my flights to New York through Google Flights, I made sure to secure an early arrival, giving myself plenty of time to soak in every corner. For accommodation, I turned to Booking.com, focusing on Yonkers hotels that gave me quick access to trails but also easy train rides into Manhattan. Lunch stops and dinner breaks were made smoother thanks to OpenTable, which let me reserve tables at both local diners and hidden gems. For guided tours and tickets to specific attractions like the Hudson River Museum, I used Viator and GetYourGuide, ensuring I didn’t miss important highlights.
What follows is a detailed guide to some of Yonkers’ most beautiful walking routes and parks, with my personal impressions, practical tips, and plenty of reasons why you should lace up your walking shoes here.
Untermyer Gardens Conservancy: A Riverside Stroll
Location: 945 North Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10701
Untermyer Gardens is easily one of the crown jewels of Yonkers. The moment I stepped onto the grounds, I was struck by the grandeur of the walled Persian Garden, with its symmetrical water features and intricately designed mosaic tiles. The crisp air of September carried a faint floral fragrance, mixing with the earthy scent of fallen leaves, and it immediately slowed my pace. Walking along the central canal, I felt as though I had left New York entirely and been transported to another world—somewhere between an ancient paradise garden and a living piece of art.
Experience along the route:
- The Walled Garden is the centerpiece, a perfect place to start your walk. Its fountains gurgle softly, surrounded by geometrical flower beds bursting with late-summer colors. Families and couples strolled through slowly, and I noticed how easily the space seemed to invite reflection. It’s not the kind of place you rush through—you want to linger.
- Heading west, the garden’s pathways lead to the Vista Steps, a grand staircase descending toward the Hudson River. Standing at the top, I paused to take in the breathtaking panorama: the sparkling river, the Palisades rising proudly across the water, and the city skyline faintly visible in the distance. In the soft golden light of a September evening, the steps themselves seemed to glow.
- Hidden corners, like the Temple of Love, rewarded my curiosity. I followed the sound of trickling water until I reached the stone structure draped in ivy. A small waterfall spilled over the rocks, creating a peaceful soundtrack. Sitting on the cool stone bench there, I felt miles away from the urban bustle, wrapped in a moment of calm.
Costs and tips:
Entrance is free, though donations are welcome and go directly toward maintaining the gardens. Guided tours can be reserved through Viator, which I highly recommend for learning about Samuel Untermyer’s ambitious vision and the remarkable story of the garden’s revival after years of neglect. Weekends tend to get busy, particularly in fall when the foliage adds another layer of beauty, so visiting on a weekday morning gave me a much quieter experience. Parking on-site is limited, so arriving early helps secure a spot. Don’t forget to bring a camera—this is one of the most photogenic places in Yonkers.
Tibbetts Brook Park: A Family-Friendly Walk
Location: 355 Midland Ave, Yonkers, NY 10704
After exploring Untermyer’s grandeur, I headed south to Tibbetts Brook Park. While Untermyer felt elegant and historic, Tibbetts greeted me with an easy, lively energy. This park feels much more local, buzzing with families picnicking under shady trees, joggers making their way around the trails, and children chasing each other across wide lawns. I could immediately tell this was the heart of weekend life for many Yonkers residents.
Experience along the route:
- The central lake is a wonderful focal point. I walked the loop trail around it, pausing several times to watch ducks gliding peacefully across the surface. In the stillness of early morning, the water mirrored the sky, turning soft pink and gold with the sunrise. Fishermen stood along the shore, quietly casting their lines, adding to the scene’s relaxed rhythm.
- For longer strolls, I followed Tibbetts Brook itself, a winding stream that cuts through the park. The gentle sound of running water, combined with the rustle of leaves overhead, gave the walk a meditative quality. I noticed how the air here felt cooler, the shade thicker, and how the path encouraged me to simply listen to nature.
- Beyond the natural features, the park also offers plenty of open spaces and sports fields. On my walk, I saw teenagers playing soccer, parents teaching their children to ride bicycles, and groups of friends stretching after a run. Benches scattered along the way invited me to pause, rest, and simply people-watch—a small but meaningful part of the park’s charm.
Costs and tips:
Entrance is generally free outside of summer pool season. In the warmer months, the park’s water park—complete with slides and splash zones—requires a small admission fee, which can be booked on-site. The cost is modest, and for families with kids, it’s a highlight worth planning for. If you’re combining this stop with a longer stay in Yonkers, I recommend checking Booking.com for nearby hotels with breakfast included, as Tibbetts is an excellent way to start the day. The park has plenty of picnic tables, so packing snacks or even a full lunch is a great idea. Just remember that weekends can get crowded, so visiting early in the day ensures a more relaxed experience.
The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail: Historic Greenway
Location: Runs through Yonkers, accessible at multiple points including Getty Square and Untermyer Gardens
The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail was easily my favorite discovery in Yonkers. Walking this historic route felt like following the footsteps of the city’s past. Once used to bring fresh water into New York City, the aqueduct is now a leafy walking and biking trail stretching for miles.
Experience along the route:
- I joined the trail near Untermyer Gardens and walked southward. The wide dirt path was shaded by tall trees, making it cool and comfortable even on warmer days.
- Along the way, I passed stone ventilation towers—reminders of the aqueduct’s 19th-century engineering.
- Local joggers and dog walkers shared the space, giving it a communal feel.
Costs and tips:
The trail is completely free and open year-round. For first-time walkers, I recommend downloading a route map from the Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct website. If you’re planning to explore longer sections, use Viator to book a guided history walk, which adds rich storytelling to the journey.
Hudson River Museum and Lenoir Preserve: Culture and Nature Together
Location: 511 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, NY 10701
Heading west toward the river, I spent a day combining art, culture, and nature. The Hudson River Museum gave me an incredible introduction to Yonkers’ history and art scene. Afterward, I walked a short distance north to the Lenoir Preserve, where nature reclaimed my senses.
Experience along the route:
- At the Hudson River Museum, I explored art galleries, a planetarium, and exhibits on the Hudson River’s ecology. Booking tickets was smooth through GetYourGuide.
- From the museum, walking north along Warburton Avenue, I reached Lenoir Preserve, a 40-acre park with wooded trails, butterfly gardens, and sweeping views of the Palisades across the river.
- The trails here were less crowded, filled with bird songs and rustling leaves. It felt like stepping into a private sanctuary.
Costs and tips:
The Hudson River Museum admission is usually around \$8–\$10. Lenoir Preserve is free. Pairing the two makes for a perfect half-day walk, mixing indoor learning with outdoor peace.
Trevor Park and Glenwood Waterfront
Location: Warburton Ave & Trevor Park, Yonkers, NY 10701
Further south along the river, Trevor Park opened up like a green balcony overlooking the Hudson. Its connection to the Glenwood waterfront made it an ideal walking loop.
Experience along the route:
- Trevor Park itself has open fields, shaded walking paths, and benches where locals gather for quiet afternoons.
- The waterfront trails gave me the closest access to the river, with views stretching all the way to the George Washington Bridge.
- I paused often just to listen to the sound of water and passing trains, a soundtrack unique to this part of Yonkers.
Costs and tips:
Free to access. For meals nearby, I reserved a table through OpenTable at a local riverfront restaurant. Nothing complements a riverside walk like a seafood dinner with sunset views.
Practical Advice for Walking in Yonkers
1.Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Trails range from paved city paths to dirt forest routes.
2.Timing: September is ideal, with crisp air and early signs of fall foliage. Morning walks provide cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
3.Navigation: While parks are well-marked, downloading maps on your phone helps, especially for longer trails like the Old Croton Aqueduct.
4.Packing Essentials: Water bottle, snacks, and a light jacket for evening breezes.
5.Booking Platforms:
Google Flights for airfare into NYC.
Booking.com and Expedia for Yonkers accommodations.
Viator or GetYourGuide for guided tours in parks or cultural spots.
OpenTable for meal reservations near the riverfront or downtown.
Walking through Yonkers’ parks gave me something I didn’t expect: a new rhythm. Instead of rushing between landmarks, I slowed down, noticing the curve of the river, the echo of footsteps along old aqueduct stones, and the mix of history and greenery that defines the city. Each park—Untermyer Gardens, Tibbetts Brook, Lenoir Preserve—offered not just exercise, but moments of peace and wonder.
By the time I packed my bags and checked out of my Yonkers hotel, I realized these walks had shown me more than scenery. They revealed Yonkers as a place where past and present coexist, where nature softens the edges of urban life, and where walking isn’t just movement—it’s discovery.
